THE top five teams in the York Minster Engineering League Premier Division recorded successes as they put some distance between themselves and the chasing pack, though some teams were made to work harder than others for their points.

Fourth-placed Sporting Knavesmire found themselves behind at half-time to a determined Osbaldwick, who led through a Chris Bilton penalty after he had been fouled in the box.

However, despite having many glorious chances to increase their lead, Osso could not capitalise and paid the price early in the second period when Tom Owen put away a one-on-one to level matters.

Danny Owers then scored from close range to give Knavesmire a 2-1 lead, which they defended until the final whistle, despite a constant Osbaldwick onslaught.

Another team made to work hard for victory were table-toppers Wigginton Grasshoppers, despite Eddy Clapham giving them a 30th-minute lead against Malton & Norton when his cross looped over the visitors' keeper.

Malton & Norton grafted and were rewarded five minutes before the break when Simon Reeves pounced on a loose ball to fire home.

After the interval, Scott Preston broke away down the left to slot home and give the away side the advantage.

A push on Jamie Willstrop resulted in the award of a Wigginton penalty, which was duly converted by Gary Newton to level the scores.

Further chances came at both ends before two strikes in two minutes settled the tie, Matt Tiplady firing Hoppers in front before Eddy Clapham killed off Malton & Norton's chances with 15 minutes remaining, sealing a 4-2 win for the home side.

Huntington Rovers maintained tabs on Wiggy following their 7-1 defeat of York RI.

Danny Gray, James Edmond and Jon James all bagged braces in their win, with Joe Milner also making the scoresheet.

Ben Dale grabbed a late consolation for RI.

Dunnington edged past Church Fenton White Horse 2-0 to remain just one point behind third-placed Dringhouses. 'Houses themselves led Copmanthorpe at the break but relied on a late match winner after Rich Holden had levelled matters early in the second period.

Paul Bentley, Dan Hickey and Adam Tiffany gave F1 Racing a 3-0 lead midway through their match with Brooklyn, Dan Clubley striking his first goal for the away side in the second half to round off a 4-0 win.

Old Malton St Mary's enjoyed a 2-0 success at Tadcaster Magnets.